What Do Ants Like Best: Artificial or Cane Sugars?

By Sofia PC

Updated on Apr 24, 2014

Objective:

Discover whether ants are more attracted to natural cane sugar or artificial sweeteners.

Research Questions:

What is artificial sweetener made of?

What is the composition of sugar? Where is it obtained?

Are there different types of sugar?

Ants like picnics, and, like humans, they're especially attracted to sweets. But can ants tell the difference between natural and artificial sweeteners? Why might they prefer one over the other? Let's find out.

Materials:

Pure cane white sugar

Artificial Sweetener, such as Equal, Splenda, and Sweet N' Low

Common ants (you can find these outside on warm/hot days, but if you are doing the experiment in the winter, then obtain from a specialty breeding source)

A clear box with just a few holes on top

Experimental Procedure

Count the amount of ants you have obtained. This can be very tedious and difficult, so please be patient.

In the clear box, put one pile of pure cane sugar on one side and one pile of artificial sweetener on the other. Be sure to leave enough space for the ants in the middle, at least a full hand's width to separate the sugars.

Release the ants into the clear box and put the lid on to prevent them from coming out. Observe their behavior.

After 30 minutes, count the number of ants in each pile. Again, this may be difficult, but hang in there!

Repeat the above step in 30 minute increments for 3 hours and then overnight.

References:

Sofia PC is currently a college student with a deep interest in science who is aspiring to become a writer. She writes about all sorts of things across all subjects including, but not limited to; science, crafts, and fashion. She hopes to become a good writer so she can share her thoughts and experiences with the world and future generations.

Disclaimer and Safety Precautions

Education.com provides the Science Fair Project Ideas for informational
purposes only. Education.com does not make any guarantee or representation
regarding the Science Fair Project Ideas and is not responsible or liable for
any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, caused by your use of such
information. By accessing the Science Fair Project Ideas, you waive and
renounce any claims against Education.com that arise thereof. In addition, your
access to Education.com's website and Science Fair Project Ideas is covered by
Education.com's Privacy Policy and site Terms of Use, which include limitations
on Education.com's liability.

Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all
individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea
should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental
or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all
materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For
further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.